Captured: An American Prisoner of War in North Vietnam (Scholastic Focus) brings a harrowing yet inspiring story of courage and survival to young adult readers.
In 1965, U.S. Navy pilot Jeremiah Denton was shot down over North Vietnam. He would spend nearly eight years as a prisoner of war, enduring torture, starvation, and brutal solitary confinement. Yet even in the darkest hours of captivity, Denton and his fellow POWs found ways to communicate, resist, and maintain hope.
 
Award-winning author Alvin Townley adapts this unforgettable true story for teen readers, weaving history, biography, and narrative nonfiction into an inspiring account of resilience, brotherhood, and patriotism.
 
🎯 Perfect For
Middle & High School students (grades 7–12)
Teachers seeking nonfiction texts for history or social studies classes
Fans of YA adaptations of real-life survival stories
Readers of Unbroken (YA Edition) and other military biographies
Book clubs focusing on courage, resilience, and historical nonfiction
 
💡 Why You’ll Love It
A true story adapted for young adult readers without losing emotional impact
Themes of courage, hope, and resilience against overwhelming odds
Engages students with history through real people and lived experiences
Includes resources and discussion guides for classrooms
Inspires young readers to consider values of honor, loyalty, and perseverance